Van der Waals forces of hydrogen

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of Van der Waals forces in hydrogen, particularly questioning why these forces are considered weakest in the liquid state. Participants explore the underlying mechanisms of these forces and seek clarification on the topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the assertion that Van der Waals forces of hydrogen are weakest in the liquid state, suggesting a misunderstanding of the original question.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on the source of Van der Waals forces, prompting a discussion about the role of electrons in creating instantaneous dipoles.
  • A participant describes the mechanism of Van der Waals forces, explaining how the movement of electrons can lead to temporary dipoles that induce attraction between molecules.
  • Another participant agrees with the explanation provided about the source of Van der Waals forces, emphasizing the importance of electrons in this context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the strength of Van der Waals forces in liquid hydrogen, indicating that multiple competing perspectives exist regarding this topic. The discussion remains unresolved as participants continue to seek clarification and understanding.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the definitions and conditions under which Van der Waals forces are considered, particularly in relation to the state of hydrogen (liquid vs. other states). The discussion does not resolve these assumptions.

wenxian
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Why does the Van der Waals forces of hydrogen weakest in liquid state?
 
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I doubt it is true that Van der Waals forces of hydrogen are weakest when the hydrogen is in a liquid state. But I also doubt this is the question you were asked, I suppose you were asked why the Van der Waals forces in liquid hydrogen are the weakest Van der Waals forces present in any substance.
 
Thanks for correcting my mistake. That is what I was trying to ask. Can u explain the reason to me ?
 
What is the source of the Van der Waals forces?
 
This force arises because electrons in molecules are moving at high speed in orbitals. At any instant in time it is possible for more electrons to lie to one side of the molecule than the other one. When this happens, Van der Waal's forces occur. The momentary imbalance of electrons provides the positive end of a dipole with the atomic nucleus providing the positive end of the dipole. Therefore, instantaneous dipole produces an induced dipole in the neighboring molecules. in my opinion,this is how Van der Waal's forces of attraction occur. Am I right? Please feel free to point out my mistake.
 
This is more or less correct.

Now, the answer to your original question lies in your explanation. If not for the electrons there would be no VdW forces, wouldn't it?
 
Got it. Thanks!
 

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